§ Mr. LANE-FOXasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, as he had not been able to give the information in Debate, he could now say whether the 1702 opinion of commanding officers of mounted units was taken before the Order for the withdrawal of horse rugs from Army horses was decided upon; whether that opinion was favourable to such with drawal; and whether the recent Order had been actually carried out throughout the Army?
§ Colonel SEELYHorse rugs to the extent of 10 per cent, are still allowed for riding and draught horses. This all-round Grant was made in substitution of the varying percentages hitherto granted. As the general issue of horse rugs for Army horses has never been recognised, it was not considered necessary to consult commanding officers in the matter. So far as is known the Regulations are being carried out.
§ Major ARCHER-SHEEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these rugs are being provided at the expense of the officers of the regimental funds of nearly every corps in the Service; and, further, that the commanding officers of nearly every Cavalry regiment in the Service are against this Order?
§ Colonel SEELYI am not aware of that. If the hon. Member will put down a question and give me his facts, I will inquire into them.
§ Mr. LANE-FOXWill the right hon. Gentleman inquire whether the members of the Army Council or any other sane per sons let their horses stand without rugs through an English winter?
§ Colonel SEELYI do not think that that has any bearing on the problem before us.